As the seasons change, so does the weather, which means it might be time to update your skin care routine. The products that worked well in colder months may not be the best choice as temperatures go up.
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Many people use the same skin care products all year, but your skin’s needs change with the environment. Temperature, humidity, and sun exposure all affect how your skin acts. Changing your routine with the seasons can help keep your skin healthy and balanced.
Why It’s Important to Alter Your Routine
Temperature and humidity changes affect your skin’s moisture. Cold air and indoor heating dry out skin in fall and winter, so people often use thicker creams and heavier moisturizers to keep skin from drying out.
When the weather warms up, the air usually holds more moisture. That means your skin might not need the heavy products you used in colder months. Using rich products can then make your skin feel greasy or clog your pores.
Warmer temperatures increase sweating and oil production, especially during spring and summer when people are outdoors more. Not adjusting your routine may lead to breakouts, irritation, or excess shine.
Longer days mean more time outside, which increases your skin’s exposure to UV rays. Over time, this can lead to sun damage, early aging, and a higher risk of skin cancer.
Some skin conditions flare up with the seasons. Acne, rosacea, and eczema can be affected by heat, humidity, and sun. Changing your routine can help manage these issues.
How to Change Your Routine
Updating your routine doesn’t mean you have to start over. Often, small changes to your skin care products can make a big difference.
Choose Lighter Cleansers
In warmer months, gentle gel or cream cleansers work best. They remove sweat, oil, and sunscreen without drying out your skin.
It’s important to cleanse regularly when you’re outside or exercising. Sweat and dirt can build up, so washing your face helps keep pores clear and skin feeling fresh.
Exfoliate—But Be Gentle
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that build up on your skin’s surface. This lets your other skin care products absorb better, making your skin look brighter and smoother.
In warmer months, exfoliating helps clear away sweat, sunscreen, and oil buildup. Don’t overdo it—gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is usually enough.
Consider Your Skin Type
Your skin care routine should always match your skin type.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, warmer weather may boost oil production. Switch to lighter, non-comedogenic products. Oil-free moisturizers and lightweight serums hydrate without adding shine.
If your skin is dry or sensitive, you might still need moisturizers, but lighter lotions often work better than heavy creams.
Add Brightening and Antioxidant Products
With more sun exposure, brightening products that contain antioxidants can help protect your skin and even out your skin tone.
Antioxidants fight free radicals that damage skin and speed up aging. Using these products helps your skin look healthier over time.
Make SPF Your Daily Habit
Sunscreen should be part of every skin care routine, especially when you spend more time outdoors.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it every day, even when it’s cloudy, and reapply if you’re outside for a long time.
Sunscreen protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which cause sunburn, damage, and raise the risk of skin cancer.
Keep It Simple
A good skin care routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, keeping it simple works best.
A basic seasonal skin care routine may include:
- A gentle cleanser
- A lightweight moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- Occasional exfoliation
- Optional treatment or antioxidant products
Choose products that fit your skin’s needs and the environment you’re in.
When to See a Dermatology Provider
If you notice persistent dryness, redness, breakouts, or irritation during seasonal changes, see a dermatologist. They can suggest products that suit your skin type and lifestyle.
Sometimes, what looks like a simple seasonal change might actually be a skin condition that needs professional treatment.
The Bottom Line
Your skin reacts to its environment. As the climate changes, your skin care routine should change too.
Make small, easy changes to your seasonal skin care routine: switch to lighter products, exfoliate gently, and use sunscreen every day to keep your skin balanced and healthy.
Pay attention to your skin’s changing needs each season. Update your routine as needed to keep your skin healthy, and think about seeing a dermatologist if problems persist. Remember, small changes can make a big difference, helping you feel confident and comfortable in your skin every day.
*Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dermatology Partners is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from reliance on this information.
Sources
Engebretsen, K. A., Johansen, J. D., Kezic, S., Linneberg, A., & Thyssen, J. P. (2016). The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 30(2), 223–249. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.13301
Weiss, S. C., Rowell, R., & Krochmal, L. (2008). Impact of seasonality on conducting clinical studies in dermatology. Clinical Dermatology, 26(5), 565–569. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clindermatol.2008.01.016
Goh, C. L., Wu, Y., Welsh, B., Abad‑Casintahan, M. F., Tseng, C. J., Sharad, J., Jung, S. K., Rojanamatin, J., Sitohang, I. B. S., & Chan, H. N. K. (2023). Expert consensus on holistic skin care routine: Focus on acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and sensitive skin syndrome. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 22(1), 45–54. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15519
